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Recycled Steel Frames Within Dynamic Terraced Greenhouses

Authors:
Karolina Rogowska, Karolina Hajkowicz
Recycled Steel Frames Within Dynamic Terraced Greenhouses

Project in-detail

Constructed with recycled steel frames and integrated into the natural terrain, this restaurant features terraced greenhouses that enhance agricultural interaction while providing diverse dining experiences.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using a modular system of recycled steel frames.
02
Features terraced greenhouses that enhance environmental interaction.
03
Each building aligns with the site's natural topography.
04
Incorporates vertical divisions on façades for aesthetic appeal.
05
Designed for phased development to adapt to future needs.

The Iceland Greenhouse Restaurant is positioned in a landscape influenced by sandy ground movement and varied terrain. The design uses a modular approach that incorporates a series of connected buildings, allowing for flexibility in development. This layout encourages visitors to explore the site, creating interaction between the surrounding environment and the various spaces within. The restaurant serves multiple purposes, including dining, kitchen operations, and greenhouse facilities, all arranged to offer a cohesive experience.

Design Concept and Layout

The layout introduces a pathway that directs visitors across different levels of the terrain, highlighting the natural topography. Each building is carefully oriented to align with the landforms, fostering a sense of harmony with the external landscape. This arrangement not only promotes exploration but also encourages patrons to engage fully with the setting while enjoying the restaurant’s offerings.

Architectural Composition

The structure consists of various functional areas, featuring an entrance hall, dining room, bar, open kitchen, greenhouse, and storage spaces. Additional elements, such as staff rooms and terraces, enhance operational efficiency while creating a welcoming environment. The design prioritizes user experience, making it easy for guests to navigate between spaces, ultimately promoting both social interaction and individual comfort.

Sustainability and Construction Approach

The project emphasizes sustainability, a focus that is apparent in the construction methods. The greenhouses are built using a modular system of recycled steel frames, showcasing an efficient and environmentally friendly approach. Three-column cross-sections act as structural hangers for vegetable growth, directly linking agricultural elements to the overall design. This strategy strengthens the relationship between the building and its use, encouraging an active engagement with food production.

Development Phases

A phased development plan outlines future growth, starting with the main restaurant and two greenhouse units. Subsequent phases include a multipurpose hall and further facility expansions. This structured plan ensures that the design can adapt over time, meeting the evolving needs of its users while responding to the specific characteristics of the site.

As visitors approach the restaurant, they can observe the vertical divisions on the façades, which create a dynamic interplay of light and shadow. This visual detail enhances the building's character while establishing a connection to the thriving environments found within the greenhouses.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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